Tickets for the event ranged from $25 to $5,000 and were available online.

On her way in to the party, Sandi Jackson, 49, told reporters outside she'd be right back. But the media was not invited in to the event, and Jackson's representative later said she would not be giving comments to the media.

The media were seeking news about her husband, Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., who is battling bipolar disorder and has been on a leave of absence from Congress for three months. Jackson recently left the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. Before that, the congressman was treated at Sierra Tucson, a facility in Arizona.

Through the windows, Sandi Jackson, who represents the 7th Ward, was seen dancing and laughing at her party to loud music played by a DJ.

Before and after the party, a number of event attendees declined to comment. "I don't want to get in the middle," one guest said.

At one point, Jackson could be heard and seen from outside the restaurant on a microphone. She referred to attendees as "family" and alluded that she was under pressure.

"This is about family," she said.

Jackson said inside the restaurant that her husband was at home and "feeling better."

At one point, Jackson referred to "jackals" and said they could "stay outside." Reporters and other media formed the only crowd outside the restaurant. But it's unclear if Jackson was referring to them.

Party attendee and local businessman Mark Buford described the scene inside the party as vibrant and festive. He said Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. was not the focus of the event.

Chicago resident Calvin McCloud offered support to the congressman during his illness.

"I'm hoping for the best. I lived through the same thing years ago with the help and support of family. It's private stuff. He'll be OK. In his position, the pressure of everyday can be a lot." McCloud said.